A step further: First Walk Kansas 5K for the Fight set for May 7

A 5K run/walk and 1.5-mile fun walk will benefit the Johnson Cancer Research Center at Kansas State University.

Released: March 28, 2016

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansans are about to go a big step further in their efforts to be healthier, including fighting cancer. The first-ever Walk Kansas 5K for the Fight is planned for 10 a.m. Saturday, May 7, in Manhattan. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Johnson Cancer Research Center at Kansas State University.

The Walk Kansas 5K for the Fight is a new component of the annual Walk Kansas program, an eight-week statewide fitness challenge designed to get Kansans moving and on the path to a healthier lifestyle, said Sharolyn Jackson, Walk Kansas coordinator with K-State Research and Extension. Registration is separate for the May 7 event, which includes the choice of a timed 5K run/walk or a 1.5-mile fun walk. Register online at Walk Kansas 5K for the Fight.

“You don’t have to be participating in Walk Kansas to come out on May 7 for the fun run/walk,” Jackson said. “Plus we know not everyone can be in Manhattan that day, but we welcome anyone who’s interested in participating in a fun, healthy activity while also raising money for cancer research. Those who can’t be here but would like to donate can do that on the website, too.”

The 5-kilometer run/walk starts at the Johnson Cancer Research Center located in Chalmers Hall, 1711 Claflin Road, on K-State’s campus and goes around Bill Snyder Family Stadium. All participants will receive souvenir water bottles, water and post-race snacks. Medals will go to the fastest three males and females in each age category.

Some of the best ways to prevent cancer include achieving and maintaining a healthy weight throughout life, getting regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity per week for adults) and limiting high-calorie foods and drinks, according to the American Cancer Society. Limiting sedentary behavior such as sitting, lying down, or watching TV or other screen-based entertainment is also recommended.

The ACS also recommends eating at least two-and-a-half cups of vegetables and fruits every day, choosing whole grain rather than refined grain products, and limiting consumption of processed and red meat.

“K-State Research and Extension goals align with lifestyle recommendations to prevent cancer,” Jackson said. “We are excited to partner with the Johnson Cancer Research Center to offer this event.”

Sidebar or box:About the Johnson Cancer Research Center at Kansas State University

Researchers in nearly 100 laboratories in 17 departments at Kansas State University are working to determine how cancer starts and progresses and what changes occur in the genetic information of cancer cells. The scientists also study such things as the role viruses play in cancer formation, the development of anti-cancer drugs, and potential methods of diagnosis and treatment.

The center provides “seed money” for faculty who have promising research projects, helps purchase laboratory equipment, and trains the next generation of cancer researchers and medical workers.

K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.